The Role of External Advisers in Exit Planning

ExitPlanning
Aug 14
2 min read

Planning your business exit is one of the most important strategic projects you will ever undertake. For many owners, it’s also unfamiliar territory — a process they will go through only once in their career.

While some business owners try to manage the process themselves, those who achieve the best results almost always work with experienced external advisers. The right adviser team can help you maximise value, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure a smooth transition.

At ExitPlanning.co.uk, we work alongside trusted specialists to give business owners the best chance of a successful, stress-free exit. Here’s why external advisers matter — and how to get the most from them.

Why External Advisers Are Essential

Even the most capable business owner doesn’t have the specialist skills required to manage every stage of an exit. From valuing the business to structuring the deal and handling tax implications, each step demands expertise. External advisers bring:

Specialist knowledge of valuation, tax, legal, and negotiation strategies
Market insight into current buyer behaviour and deal trends
Objectivity to help you make clear-headed decisions under pressure

Types of Advisers Involved in Exit Planning

A well-rounded exit planning team may include:

M&A or Business Sale Adviser – To position your business for sale, identify buyers, create competitive tension, and negotiate the deal.
Accountant / Tax Adviser – To ensure the sale is tax-efficient, compliant, and structured in your financial best interests.
Corporate Solicitor – To draft and review sale agreements, handle due diligence queries, and protect your legal position.
Wealth Planner – To help you invest and protect the proceeds of your sale.
Specialist Consultants – For industry-specific advice, succession planning, or operational improvements pre-sale.

When to Engage External Advisers

Ideally, you should bring your adviser team on board at least 12–24 months before your intended exit. This allows time to:

Identify and address value-blocking issues
Improve financial performance and presentation
Prepare the necessary due diligence documentation
Build relationships with potential buyers

Last-minute planning often limits your options and weakens your negotiating position.

How External Advisers Add Value

The benefits go far beyond saving time and avoiding mistakes. A strong adviser team can:

Increase competitive tension to drive up offers
Structure deals for better payment terms and reduced risk
Spot potential legal or financial issues before they become deal-breakers
Ensure the process is discreet and well-managed to protect staff and customer relationships

Choosing the Right Advisers

When selecting advisers, look for:

Relevant experience in your sector or deal type
Proven track record of completed transactions
Clear fee structures and alignment of interests
Good personal chemistry — you’ll be working closely together during a high-stakes process

Why Early Engagement Matters

The earlier you involve your advisers, the more they can do to position your business for a premium result. Rushed sales often leave value on the table or expose the seller to avoidable risks.

At ExitPlanning.co.uk, we coordinate with the right mix of external experts to ensure every element of your exit is covered — from valuation to negotiation, legal protection, and post-sale wealth planning. Our role is to keep the process moving, keep you informed, and keep your best interests at the centre of every decision.